2 new laws in Neb. bar later-term abortions, require screenings for women seeking procedure

New laws in Neb. add restrictions on abortions

LINCOLN, Neb. — Two first-of-their-kind laws in Nebraska put new restrictions on abortion, including one that uses a new legal rationale for a ban on later-term abortions.

That law bars abortions at and after 20 weeks of pregnancy based on the assertion that fetuses feel pain at that time. The current standard is viability, or when a fetus is able to survive outside the womb.

Abortion-rights advocates say the law marks a clear break with court precedent and it won’t withstand a legal challenge. Supporters of the ban see an opening in previous court rulings.

The other bill signed by Gov. Dave Heineman on Tuesday will require health professionals to assess whether women have risk factors that could lead to mental or physical problems after an abortion.